Autoimmunity
AutoImmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases are conditions where your immune system, which is supposed to protect your body from harmful invaders like bacteria and viruses, mistakenly attacks your own healthy cells. Think of your immune system as your body's defense force. Normally, this defense force can tell the difference between what's part of your body and what's not. But in the case of autoimmune diseases, it gets confused and starts attacking your body's own tissues, thinking they're the enemy.
With more than 100 autoimmune diseases, some autoimmunity can be caused by a combination of genetic (run in families), environmental factors, and possibly hormonal factors. Autoimmune diseases may cause:
- The destruction of body tissue
- Abnormal growth of an organ
- Changes in organ function
Your Body Is Trying To Tell You Something
Almost 80% of people who have autoimmune diseases are women. Over many years of frustration and confusion, many are told the symptoms were "in there head," or that they were under too much stress. Are you tired of saying the same things over and over again, bringing you more anguish of feeling unheard?
Your unique needs and concerns will be heard by Dr. Erika as she will work closely with you and guide you through an individualized treatment process.
The Importance of Gut Health
The gut microbiome (the community of bacteria and other microorganisms in the intestines) plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system. Imbalances in the gut microbiome can contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases.
When the gut barrier is compromised, toxins, bacteria, and partially digested food particles can leak into the bloodstream. This can trigger an immune response and inflammation, potentially leading to or exacerbating autoimmune diseases.
Maintaining gut health is crucial for a well-functioning immune system. Improving gut health through functional medicine can help in managing or preventing autoimmune diseases.
Common Autoimmune Conditions We Treat
- Asthma
- Celiac Disease
- Crohn's Disease
- Eczema
- Hashimoto's Disease
- Lupus
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Osteoarthritis
- Psoriasis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
Take the First Step to Start Your Pathway to a Healthy Life.
Are you tired of saying the same things over and over again brining you more pain of now feeling unheard? If you are living with autoimmune disease, Dr. Erika is here to provide expert care and the support you need to gain back your vitality.
